Edward Snowden, supporters make case for pardon

Wednesday, September 14, 2016 - 01:24

Former National Security Agency contractor Edward Snowden and his allies are calling on U.S. President Barack Obama to pardon him. Snowden presented his case via video link from Moscow, where he now lives. Rough Cut (no reporter narration).

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ROUGH CUT (NO REPORTER NARRATION)
American whistleblower Edward Snowden and his supporters made their case for the former National Security Agency contractor to be pardoned.
At a news conference in New York, Snowden, who lives in Moscow, appeared via video link to say he doesn't regret his decision to steal thousands of classified intelligence documents.
Supporters of Snowden are calling for a pardon arguing that he performed a public service by exposing excessive and intrusive electronic spying by the intelligence agency and its English-speaking allies, including Britain's Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ).
White House spokesman Josh Earnest said on Monday that Snowden is charged with "serious crimes, and it's the policy of the administration that Mr. Snowden should return to the United States and face those charges."
Two other U.S. officials said there are no discussions inside the Justice Department about granting him a pardon.

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